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Tracii Guns and Phil Lewis reunite LA Guns and release new album in 2017

Frontiers Music Srl is delighted to welcome the reunion of Tracii Guns And Phil Lewis as L.A. GUNS to the label for the release of a brand new album set for release in the summer of 2017.

After a nearly 15 year break, Philip Lewis and Tracii Guns are back together for another chapter in their partnership that began in 1986, four years after Tracii formed L.A. Guns in 1982.

Their writing partnership spawned classic L.A. GUNS songs such as “Sex Action”, “Never Enough”, “Electric Gypsy”, “The Ballad Of Jayne”, and countless more in an impressive catalog of fan favorites. The last time Lewis and Guns joined forces was back in 2000 with legendary producer Andy Johns for the making of what would become “Waking The Dead” – an album that went on to receive tremendous critical acclaim and proved that their musical partnership was every bit as strong as the early days with all-killer-no-filler songs including “Don’t Look At Me That Way”, “Hellraisers Ball”, and “The Ballad”.

“I think we owe it to our fans who have stuck with us during the many ups and downs of the band’s long and checkered career,” says Lewis. “Tracii and I have written the songs to the soundtrack of many people’s lives, and I think it’s definitely worth investigating to see if the magic is still there.”

As for Guns, he’s been compiling song ideas over the last year and promises this one will be one of the band’s heaviest records, simply stating, “It’s good to be home.”

The band has already confirmed a bunch of UK shows in early 2017 and two shows at the legendary Whisky A Go-Go in Los Angeles, CA with more surprises to be announced soon!

Seven – ‘Fight’ official music video

“Fight”, is taken from SEVEN’s new album Shattered, which is released today (September 23rd), by UK label Escape Music Ltd. “Fight” was co-written with well known songwriter Jeff Paris (Mr. Big, Vixen, Y&T, Paul Stanley).

The roots of SEVEN can be traced back to the late ’80s/early ’90s in South Africa, of all places. At the time, Keith McFarlane and the brothers Simon and John LeFevre were in a band called FACE TO FACE, while Mick Devine was drummer in another band, called UC27. After releasing several singles and one album in a period of 18 months, FACE TO FACE split and the brothers LeFevre returned to the U.K. After a few months, they decided to reform the band and Mick was asked to join them in the U.K. as their drummer. It wasn’t before long that the brothers discovered that Mick was actually a better singer than drummer, and so Mick became the band’s lead vocalist. A couple of years later, they were joined by Pat Davey on bass and Austin Lane on drums and the band name was changed to SEVEN.

The AOR scene in the late eighties was a thriving hive of activity. At the turn of the new decade, the likes of Mitch Malloy, Paul Laine, FIREHOUSE, TYKETTO and TALISMAN were all signed up and ready to make an impact on the genre. Everybody wanted an AOR band, and Polydor Records was no exception. Having been fairly successful in the U.K with the likes of MAGNUM and LITTLE ANGELS, the label had set their sights on SEVEN, which at the time was a relatively unknown act from Bournemouth.

SEVEN toured extensively supporting an eclectic variety of acts that included the likes of Jason Donovan, Richard Marx, THE MONKEES and BROTHER BEYOND. It’s a time period that Mick Devine is keen to reminisce about. “Even though they were out and out pop gigs, we loved the crowds and the noise,” he says. “We went from pubs to opening to 3000 screaming fans in Southampton. It is a very addictive adrenaline rush. We got to play all the top venues, which were fantastic — including Wembley Arena, the NEC, BIC, SEC and even the Royal Albert Hall. The Richard Marx tour was definitely the best for us with a more grown up audience we were able to rock it up and truly be ourselves. It went down really well!”

With John Parr as producer, they recorded two very strong singles in the shape of “Inside Love” and “Man With A Vision”, both of which achieved moderate success in the U.K.

In 2014, the original bass player Pat Davey was working alongside Robert Hart on an Escape Music album when the name SEVEN cropped up in the conversation. It would seem that Khalil Turk was a big fan, as Devine explains. “Yeah, back in the day, Khalil had really loved the band and he got in touch to see if we would be interested in finally releasing an album,” he says. Without too much convincing, the project was born.

The production talents of Lars Chriss (the LION’S SHARE guitarist whose repertoire includes albums with Steve Overland, Chris Ousey, LUGNET, NIVA and RADIOACTIVE) were enlisted to produce the band’s debut album, called “7”, which was released to critical acclaim and was held up as one of the “albums of the year” on many lists.

Following the success of the first album, a passion was rekindled within Devine and McFarlane, who began work on new material, and along with the writing talents of Lars Chriss, Fredrik Bergh (BLOODBOUND, ROB MORATTI, STREET TALK), Andy Loos (LION’S SHARE, GLORY, CHRIS OUSEY), Kay Backlund (LION’S SHARE, NIVA) and Jeff Paris (MR. BIG, Y&T, VIXEN, RADIOACTIVE), that passion was given focus and a place to come to life. What they discovered was a well of untapped creativity that had been hidden for far too long and the songs poured out.

SEVEN’s “Shattered” is a collection of wonderfully catchy songs that rely on clean and memorable melodies that allow Devine’s distinctive voice to shine through. It was Devine who took the lead in writing the lyrics on this album, matching the intensity and feel of the music to deliver a modern melodic rock album with influences ranging from hints of FOREIGNER in “A Better Life” and “Broken Dream”, JOURNEY in “High Hopes” and even traces of MAGNUM in “Light Of 1000 Eyes” and “Last Illusion”. The lyrical themes are drawn from a depth of life experience and observations and are heartfelt and real. The production talents of Chriss and the lineup of truly great musicians, deliver an album of depth and variation which ranges from driving guitar-led tracks with memorable riffs to melodic anthems, all backed by stunning keys, bass and standout solos. It is an album that is a worthy follow-up to the critically acclaimed “7”.
“Shattered” track listing:

01. Light Of 1000 Eyes
02. A Better Life
03. Fight
04. Shattered
05. Live This Life
06. Pieces Of You
07. Broken Dream
08. High Hopes
09. I Needed Time
10. Taking Over
11. Last Illusion
12. World Of Make Believe (bonus track for Japan)
SEVEN is:

Glenn Hughes – ‘Heavy’ music video

Hevidence release debut album ‘Nobody’s Fault’ in December

Frontiers Music Srl announces the release of Hevidence’s debut album, “Nobody’s Fault” on December 2, 2016.

Hevidence is the brainchild of Italian guitar player Diego Reali, founding member of Italian Prog Metal masters DGM. After he left the band in 2006, he started dabbling in some different musical styles, but his heart called for him to get back to metal! Thus Hevidence were born and Diego joined up with DGM bass player Andrea Arcangeli, singer Corrado Quoiani and drummer Emiliano Bonini.

“This band is highly inspired by the classic hard and heavy sounds from the ’70s and ’80s, that’s why we worked hard to make this album sound the most vintage that was possible,” tells Diego. “We are convinced that a huge dose of improvisation during the recording sessions is needed for the success of an original product. Everyone of us has many different musical influences and they came out in a very spontaneous way within the song writing process, we just believe in the word “ROCK”!!!”

Hevidence offer a mature and personal vision of hard rock and metal with a style reminiscent of the classic Official Yngwie Malmsteen albums mixed with power metal and melodic hard rock influences (think early Europe).

Dario Mollo’s Crossbones unleash ‘Rock The Cradle’ in December

Frontiers Music Srl is pleased to announce the release of Dario Mollo’s CROSSBONES new album, “Rock the Cradle” on December 2nd.

Best known for his partnerships in the The Cage with Tony Martin (ex-Black Sabbath) and Voodoo Hill with Glenn Hughes (Black Country Communion, Deep Purple, California Breed), Italian guitarist Dario Mollo began his career in 1981 with the band CROSSBONES. With them, he released his first studio album in 1989, which was produced by Kit Woolven (Thin Lizzy Official, MAGNUM and UFO, among others) before getting involved in the production side of things himself.

For this new CROSSBONES album, the Italian axeman brought back original drummer, Ezio Secomandi with the line-up completed by his regular collaborator Dario Patti on bass and keyboards. The choice for the singer was Carl Sentance (Nazareth, Don Airey Band, Persian Risk, KROKUSonline), who came at the suggestion of Don Airey of Deep Purple, during a recent visit to Dario’s home.

“I think this record has a strong identity and character,” tells Dario. “It is a mature production and the songs range on many styles of hard rock and classic heavy metal, but every song has a catchy chorus. I also think this album shows how much I liked working with Carl. He is easily one of the best singers I have ever worked with. I am certain our cooperation will not end with this cd!” concludes Dario. The quality of the material presented here is witness to that statement.

Graham Bonnet – ‘Into The Night’ official music video

Xandria reveal details about upcoming album ‘Theater of Dimensions’

The story continues …

After the successful release of XANDRIA’s latest masterpiece “Sacrificium” (2014, Napalm Records) and their spectacular EP “Fire & Ashes” (2015, Napalm Records), the band is ready to unleash their latest effort in terms of fantastic and epic symphonic metal:

Please welcome the highly anticipated brand new album entitled „Theater of Dimensions“!

Theater of Dimensions“ will be released worldwide on January 27th 2017 via Napalm Records!

The band has definitely taken the next big step and will win over fans and critics alike.
XANDRIA commented on their new album „Theater of Dimensions“:
“After the release of “Sacrificium” we embarked on our longest Tour so far. Over 150 shows that took us around the globe. Through so many different countries and diverse cultures. Through so many different, yet inspiring dimensions. We brought back plenty of memories, sometimes just bits and pieces, but those stuck to our heads. And it made us see who we are and where we wanted to take our music. Made us fearless. Made us push our boundaries once more. Made us cross some so-called genre defining borders. Made us bundle all our trademarks and take them to the next level. All this makes the most colourful Xandria album so far. It contains our most heavy and most emotional moments. Again, producer Joost van den Broek did a phenomenal job capturing the atmosphere down to every detail. A Theater of musical Dimensions. Can’t wait to share the songs with you…”

XANDRIA will be heavily hitting the road not only in Europe as well as Latin America, Canada and the US!

Mere days after singer Stephen Pearcy announced he was leaving Ratt, the status of what was to be their upcoming studio album remains in doubt.

Pearcy said he was leaving the multi-platinum band “due to the constant turmoil, unresolved business, personal attacks/threats in the public forum and most of all, the disrespect to the fans.” However he didn’t rule out finishing the follow-up to 2010’s ‘Infestation’, and the band’s first album with bassist Jaun Croucier since 1990’s ‘Detonator’.

“I’m not saying there won’t be another Ratt record, it just won’t be under a circumstance of a band going into the studio,” Pearcy told One On One With Mitch Lafon. “I just won’t be playing in that band anymore and pretty much put that to rest.”

Ratt’s current record contract with Loud & Proud/Roadrunner was for two albums, meaning they owe the label one more disc. “As I mentioned to my manager and the label representative, I am still committed to this record, I just don’t want to be involved with my band,” Pearcy continued. “My offer is out there, I still want to do this record and it will be done when I decide its going to get done! Warren (DiMartini, guitarist) and I actually wrote a great song months ago… and if that’s the last thing that gets out, and the only thing, its a good thing. I said I’d do it, but I never want to be involved with my band again — that’s just the bottom line.”

After the interview Ratt drummer Bobby Blotzer went on the offensive, saying Pearcy would be unable to release any new music and owed him a big chunk of money.

“Thanx for ruining my Saturday night with my wife,” stated Blotzer. “Stephen, me genius friend, #1 you’re not putting anything out as you’re signed to Roadrunner/Atlantic Records. #2, you still owe WBS Inc., ‘Bobby Blotzer, Warren DiMartini’, $1.8 million from the judgement in 2002. I know in your tweety bird mind you think that’s not real, but just as out attornry Kyle Kelley has shown you in the last couple months, it’s real — and time to collect. Bye, bye your publishing well after your departure from Earth.”

“Remember what the label said, NO RELEASES FROM YOU… Sounds like one of my UFO songs, Rock Bottom,” Blotzer concluded. “Enjoy your weekend. Maybe you can sweep floors over at the Metal Sludge office… $10 an hour.”

The future of ’80s hard rock staples Ratt looks bleak, with the recent announcement that singer Stephen Pearcy would be leaving the band.

“After 30 years creating the band Ratt and losing a real brother, Robbin (Crosby), it’s time that I personally part ways with the band,” Pearcy told Metal Sludge. “I am officially done with having anything to do with them due to the constant turmoil, unresolved business, personal attacks/threats in the public forum and most of all, the disrespect to the fans.”

While the singer didn’t mention Ratt drummer Bobby Blotzer by name, the two have been at odds for several years now and was the likely cause of the frontman’s departure from the group.

“I’m very content and proud of the legacy and the music I’ve created. This music will live well beyond any of our lifetimes,” Pearcy continued. “I owe no one anything but a huge heartfelt thank you for coming to the party for the last 30 years. With much respect, life goes on and the music I created will continue to be heard for years to come despite the dark clouds that have lingered for far too long. I will personally continue to make music and perform live shows.”

In January of this year Pearcy stated that he was writing material with guitarist Warren DeMartini for a brand new Ratt studio album to be released later this year, their first with bassist Juan Croucier since 1990’s ‘Detonator’. However, with today’s announcement that he would be walking away from the band, the possibility of new Ratt material doesn’t look promising. Regarding Ratt’s last studio album, 2010’s ‘Infestation’, Sleaze Roxx said, “All too often an ’80s band will say they are returning to their roots only to leave you scratching your head wondering what they are listening to. In this case Ratt was right on the money… Infestation is the rebirth of the classic Ratt sound.”

Saints Of Rebellion Offer Preview Of Upcoming Debut Album

Baltimore, Maryland’s Saints Of Rebellion have released a track by track preview of their upcoming debut album ‘New American Dream’ — due out June 3rd via HighVolMusic with pre-orders beginning on May 1st.

‘New American Dream’ was recorded at the Recovery Room in Arkansas and produced by Ty Sims. The band will be on tour throughout the U.S. beginning in June with Brand New Machine — tour dates and additional information will be announced shortly.

Saints Of Rebellion’s music packs a rock-hard punch that you will identify with, but just can’t stereotype into a single style of music or into any one direction. ‘New American Dream’ is a culmination of years of songwriting combined with the life experiences of four very different musicians. The result is a captured energy and intensity that showcases the talent and sincerity of the band.

Vocalist Coby DeShazo’s powerful vocals offer a soulful and bluesy grace, but also blends in his own very modern-day style. The rhythm section is comprised of bassist/keyboardist Jay Hitaffer and drummer/percussionist Ryche Green. These two combined create a dynamic rhythm section that channels the thunderous grooves of Saints Of Rebellion. The brute force that drives the music home is guitarist John Adams, who attacks his guitar with intense prowess.

The individual musical identities of the members in Saints Of Rebellion have managed to mesh it all together in ‘New American Dream’ — a unique and unforgettable sound that’ll get your blood pumping. From the first note to the last, Saints Of Rebellion is putting it all out there, loaded with universal emotion and sure to capture attention.

The Quireboys Celebrating 30th Anniversary With ‘Black Eyed Sons’ Album

Thirty years into their career The Quireboys are ready to celebrate a golden age of music with ‘Black Eyed Sons’, a new album slated for release on June 16th through Off Yer Rocka Recordings.

Following hot on the heels of last year’s critically acclaimed ‘Beautiful Curse’ — the band’s biggest-selling record since their early ’90s heyday — comes ‘Black Eyed Sons’, an album produced by the legendary Chris Tsangarides that represents yet another career high for the band.

Spike (vocals), Guy Griffin (guitars), Paul Guerin (guitars) and Keith Weir (keyboards) have spent more than a decade rebuilding and revitalising one of British rock ‘n’ roll’s best-loved brands. ‘Black Eyed Sons’ is the triumphant result.

‘Black Eyed Sons’ will include a live CD and live DVD. Packaged alongside a CD of The Quireboys’ main stage acoustic set at 2013’s Sweden Rock festival — in front of 40,000 fans — and a live 7 CAM shot DVD featuring the London leg of last year’s ‘Beautiful Curse’ tour, this a must-have for long-time fans and new converts alike.

“I’ve always felt like I’m 30-years-old,” jokes Spike. “So this is our time. And I’d just like to raise a toast to the next 30 years.”

“Ratt Is Bigger Than The Sum Of The Parts” Says Drummer Bobby Blotzer

Earlier today Ratt singer Stephen Pearcy announced that he was leaving the band, putting their future in doubt.

Now Ratt drummer Bobby Blotzer, who has been fueding with Pearcy, shares his side of the story. “To our/my Ratt fans and friends… I will say to you guys, I am sorry that I brought you guys into our personal world and turbulation. I’ve been so personally driven to a breaking point with our band being held hostage every year, that I’ve kind of been snapping. I wish we were still all four together and doing business as great as we have been doing. Especially last year. This is why its so nonsensical to me to have this disruption in a business we’ve built for the last 33 years.”

“Reality sits at, Stephen and I have gotten along since his return in ’07,” continued Blotzer. “Aside from the fact that he basically quits every year. It’s been hard to deal with. I feel bad that I might have put a dividing line out here, and for that I’m feeling bad about and I to a certain level feel the need to apologise to YOU Guys. My words were true, but the words should have stayed in my mind. And again I state that, I was only kidding about this picture thing with Steve, dumb joke. You ever done that? Exactly. When this news popped today, my phone was blowing up all day while I was trying to enjoy an afternoon with friends and I just lost it. I was going to come home and tear into that release line by line. I read your thoughts and realized that it’s time to shut the f**k up. As hard as that feels because we, the 4 other guys in this band did nothing to merit this whole behavior from Stephen.”

As for the future of Ratt, Blotzer hints that the band may not be dead after all. “Thanks for understanding, you guys know I, we love you so much. Ratt is my life and I’ll live and die fighting for the mothership. My Facebook is going bye bye here soon. So, look to see what happens in a short time… Ratt is bigger than the sum of the parts!”

“After 30 years creating the band Ratt and losing a real brother, Robbin (Crosby), it’s time that I personally part ways with the band,” Pearcy told Metal Sludge earlier today. “I am officially done with having anything to do with them due to the constant turmoil, unresolved business, personal attacks/threats in the public forum and most of all, the disrespect to the fans.”

“I’m very content and proud of the legacy and the music I’ve created. This music will live well beyond any of our lifetimes,” Pearcy continued. “I owe no one anything but a huge heartfelt thank you for coming to the party for the last 30 years. With much respect, life goes on and the music I created will continue to be heard for years to come despite the dark clouds that have lingered for far too long. I will personally continue to make music and perform live shows.”

In January of this year Pearcy stated that he was writing material with guitarist Warren DeMartini for a brand new Ratt studio album to be released later this year, their first with bassist Juan Croucier since 1990’s ‘Detonator’. However, with today’s announcement that he would be walking away from the band, the possibility of new Ratt material doesn’t look promising. Regarding Ratt’s last studio album, 2010’s ‘Infestation’, Sleaze Roxx said, “All too often an ’80s band will say they are returning to their roots only to leave you scratching your head wondering what they are listening to. In this case Ratt was right on the money… Infestation is the rebirth of the classic Ratt sound.”

Ratt have been forced to cancel their appearance on this weekends Monsters Of Rock Cruise due to the death of Stephen Pearcy’s sister.

“We are deeply saddened to report that Stephen Pearcy’s sister has passed away,” said a statement on the band’s Facebook page. “Due to this sudden and unexpected news, Ratt will not be performing on the Monsters of Rock Cruise. We would like to thank all our loyal fans for their continued support and understanding. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Stephen and his family. We ask that you kindly respect Stephen’s privacy during this difficult time.”

In late January Pearcy said the band would release a brand new studio album later this year, their first with bassist Juan Croucier since 1990’s ‘Detonator’.

“We’re looking forward to recording. We’ve actually been writing for the new record for quite some time,” Pearcy told Noize In The Attic during a recent radio interview. “Warren DeMartini and I actually went into the studio and cut a song. So hopefully a new Ratt record this year is what we want — our 30th year anniversary and our tenth record, so it’ll be OK.”

Regarding the return of Croucier, Pearcy says, “It’s been a process. Once the dust was cleared we brought him back in — or he came back in. It’s the four original guys and we’ll see what happens. I’m excited he’s back in the camp to do what he does. He’s a brilliant singer — covers my ass 24/7 out there. But when it comes to writing its all up to him.”

Ratt’s last studio album, 2010’s ‘Infestation’, topped the Sleaze Roxx reader’s poll and saw the addition of former Quiet Riot guitarist Carlos Cavazo into the group.

Pearcy promises the next Ratt release will be even better. “Warren and I are spearheading the next record to be what it should be — more EP, ‘Cellar’. Just real hardcore, basically. If this song we recorded is the only song ever released, I’d be way happy — don’t even have to do a record. We just have so many good riffs and music we haven’t even tapped into. It’s good stuff. I mean, it excites me, and if I’m excited I’m way into it. If I think it’s just like, ‘hmmmm whatever, I can write better riffs than that’, that’s different. Warren’s got some great shit going on right now, and it’s perfect timing. Like I say, tenth record — 30th anniversary.

“We’re gonna start recording the Ratt record hopefully in the next few months, and it’ll definitely be out this year. And we’re trying not to do shows, even though there are some on the books. But the less shows we do the better, because I’d like to just get the record done — and that’s where I’m at. I want a new Ratt record for the 30th year, and we’ll take it from there. The record is the most important thing for Ratt this year.”

The following five new Rock Candy titles are available now from www.rockcandyrecords.com for a discounted price including postage to anywhere in the world for the next two weeks ending on March 9.

Ratt‘Out Of The Cellar’ CANDY212 / Nobody was prepared for the Los Angeles hard rock explosion of the early 80s except, funnily enough, the bands themselves. Activity in the clubs on Sunset Strip had reached tipping point by the time Mцtley Crьe and Quiet Riot were packing out these venues and, just like an explosion in a circus, literally hundreds of bands came tumbling out of the hills ready and willing to claim a slice of the action. Looking good and talking the talk might have worked for some but if you really wanted to hit the big time then you had to be loaded with talent and songs. Step forward Ratt. With a successful independent EP eliciting a tsunami wave of major label interest, Ratt signed with industry heavyweights Atlantic records and were put in the studio with rising production star Beau Hill (later to work with Winger, Warrant, Gary Moore) and record their debut album. Issued in 1984, the results were spectacular; a record that became a three million seller and produced two hit singles in ‘Wanted Man’ and ‘Round And Round’, elevating the band to headline status almost immediately. The secret to Ratt’s success was a unique sound, great songs and great performances – especially from guitarist Warren DeMartini and vocalist Stephen Pearcy. Full of energy, unabashed enthusiasm, musical dexterity and hooks that were instantly embedded in the nation’s conscience; this was a band that took no prisoners in their rise to success. Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology,16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interviews.
Track Listing: 1. Wanted Man 2. You’re In Trouble 3. Round And Round 4. In Your Direction 5. She Wants Money 6. Lack Of Communication 7. Back For More 8. The Morning After 9. I’m Insane 10. Scene Of The Crime.

Ratt‘Dancing Undercover’ CANDY213 / Formed in 1976, Ratt were initially based in San Diego before moving lock, stock and barrel to Los Angeles in 1980. By this time, however, only vocalist Stephen Pearcy remained from their original line up, with a new unit assembled to take the LA metal scene by storm. Establishing themselves as one of the hottest acts playing the clubs they were soon snapped up by Atlantic Records whose belief was fully justified when their debut album ‘Out Of The Cellar’ sold in excess of three million copies and produced a major hit single with ‘Round And Round’. The band continued to rack-up further platinum awards with the follow up album ‘Invasion Of Your Privacy’ and played sold out arena concerts before going back into the studio to record ‘Dancing Under Cover’. It was a testing time for the band, relationships were strained and cracks began to show. They had barely taken their foot of the gas pedal since recording their debut album and those close to the situation were concerned that such fast paced activity was having a detrimental effect. It’s a minor miracle then that this album maintained such impressive quality. Produced, to pin point accuracy, by long-time associate Beau Hill (Winger, Kix, Warrant), the album contains a fine selection of songs in the finest Ratt tradition. Check out the swish and swagger of ‘Dance’, ‘Body Talk’ and ‘Enough Is Enough’; all killer, no filler.
Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology,16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interviews.
Track Listing: 1. Dance 2. One Good Lover 3. Drive Me Crazy 4.Slip Of The Lip 5. Body Talk 6. Looking For Love 7. 7th Avenue 8. It Doesn’t Matter 9. Take A Chance 10. Enough Is Enough.

xx

King’s X‘Out Of The Silent Planet’ CANDY232 / All hail to the king. The emergence of Texan based power trio King’s X resonated through the music industry like a breath of fresh air. Recoiling under a barrage of hair bands, the scene was fast stagnating but it was King’s X who rode into the fray like knights in shining armour, unleashing a stylistically innovative and brilliant new sound; one that would revolutionise and influence the direction of modern rock for years to come. ‘Out Of The Silent Planet’ is one of the finest hard rock albums of the new era pretty much laying the foundations for the coming tidal wave of grunge. They specialised in powerful detuned guitar work peeling out thick muscular riffs of the type that would soon be appropriated by future Seattle stars such as Alice In Chains and Stone Temple Pilots. That King’s X provided a beacon of light in the black is in no doubt. Originally Issued in 1988, the album is stuffed to the rafters with a brace of extraordinary tunes, each with a lyrical twist that indicated that they were communicating on a far deeper level than what might have been expected from such a robust and bruising outfit. Check out tracks such as ‘Shot Of Love’, ‘Goldilox’ and the classic ‘King’ with its haunting refrain and unnerving defiance.
Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology,16 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interviews.
Track Listing: 1. In The New Age 2. Goldilox 3. Power Of Love 4. Wonder 5. Sometimes 6. King 7. What Is This? 8. Far, Far Away 9. Shot Of Love 10. Visions.

Ambrosia‘One Eighty’ CANDY239 / Based on America’s West Coast, Ambrosia began their recording career in the mid 70s as a full blown progressive rock band, brandishing a sound that was clearly influenced by British groups like Procol Harum, Genesis and Caravan. However, with the passing of time, their style was to radically shift towards a more accessible, song based, approach, resulting in brace of melodically inclined albums that elevated the band’s profile considerably. Issued in 1980 on the Warner Bother’s label, ‘One Eighty’ was the band’s fourth album and is now regarded as the high point of their AOR period. As a six man outfit, the approach is studious yet exploratory; leaving enough space for the songs to breathe and be supported by carefully executed multi-layered backing vocals and a soulful r ‘n’ b undertow. Comparable to other premier melodic rock acts of the period such as Toto, Player and Steely Dan, the album benefits hugely from two US top twenty hit singles, ‘You’re The Only Woman’ and ‘Biggest Part Of Me’; both of which showcase front man David Pack’s world class voice. But don’t go running away with the impression that their music is all sweetness and light; tracks such as ‘Ready’, ‘Shape I’m In’, ‘Cryin’ In The Rain’ and the anthemic guitar driven ‘Rock ‘N A Hard Place’ position the band firmly at the epicentre of a some serious and powerful hard rock. Hugely recommended.
Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology,12 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interview.
Track Listing: 1. Ready 2. Shape I’m In 3. Kamikaze 4. You’re The Only Woman 5. Rock N’ A Hard Place 6. Livin’ On My Own 7. Cryin’ In The Rain 8. No Big Deal 9. Biggest Part Of Me.

Ambrosia‘Road Island’ CANDY240 / Ambrosia started their recording career as a full blown progressive rock band, based in Southern California, but harnessing a sound that was inextricably linked with early 70s British prog rockers. By the eighties the group had morphed into a hugely successful AOR unit, enjoying hit singles and mainstream media exposure very much in the breezy but precise style of Toto, Player and Steely Dan. Of course, the icing on the cake was vocalist David Pack, a man whose voice has been compared to such masters of the art as Bobby Kimball, Michael McDonald and Steve Perry. ‘Road Island’, originally issued in 1982, was Ambrosia’s fifth album and in many ways saw them returning to their progressive roots composing songs blessed with ambitious arrangements. This stylistic volt-face was in part emphasised by their choice of producer, Pink Floyd engineer James Gutherie, with recording partly undertaken in London’s famed Kinks owned Konk Studios. In addition, the album artwork’s illustrative calligraphy (undertaken by Ralph Steadman – one time illustrator of satirical publication Private Eye) was somewhat reminiscent of Pink Floyd’s ‘The Wall’, further emphasising their progressive rock roots. Musically brilliant, the album contains lashings of intelligently conceived tracks, such as ‘For Openers (Welcome Home)’ and the seven minute quasi-prog epic ‘Ice Age’. Other more traditional sounding melodic rock tracks included ‘Still Not Satisfied’ and the Fleetwood Mac reminiscent ‘How Can You Love Me’ – two of the band’s finest compositions.
Special Deluxe Collector’s Edition, fully remastered sound shaped from 24 BIT digital technology,12 page full colour booklet, 3,500 word essay, enhanced artwork, rare photos and new interview.
Track Listing: 1. For Openers (Welcome Home) 2. Still Not Satisfied 3. Kid No More 4. Feelin’ Alive Again 5. How Can You Love Me 6. Fool Like Me 7. Ice Age Endings.